EXCITING NEW COMMUNITY VENTURE SET FOR GROWTH

Children from all over the south of Skye recently took part in a 'Design a Logo' competition for an innovative community project, Fàs Mòr. Duncan Hanson from Bunsgoil Shlèite took first prize of £70 book tokens with his colourful logo and was followed by Iain MacLeòid from Bunsgoil an Ath Leathainn who took runner-up spot, with a prize of £30 book tokens. Bunsgoil Shlèite also received £100 of book tokens.

Fàs Mòr aims to meet the growing demand for childcare facilities in South Skye and will provide a safe and stimulating Gaelic environment in which children can develop and grow. The new company was established following the efforts of Curam Chloinne Shlèite, a unique partnership between Sabhal Mòr Ostaig and parents in the local community. Funding for the venture has been received from Bòrd na Gàidhlig, Gàidhlig sa Choimhearsnachd, The Highland Council, Skye and Lochalsh Enterprise, The New Opportunities Fund and The Rural Challenge Fund. Widespread local support has also been received, through fundraising events such as a sponsored toddle and regular quiz nights at the Eilean Iarmain Hotel.

The facility will open in summer 2004 and will be housed in purpose built portacabins at Sabhal Mòr Ostaig until 2006 when it will be relocated to permanent premises in the College's newest phase of development, Fàs. The Fàs Mòr Board are currently looking for qualified, Gaelic speaking members of staff for the facility. The service will provide all day care for children under the age of 3, pre and post nursery care for children aged 3 and 4, and after school care and a holiday club for primary school children. Importantly, parents will be able to claim tax credits to help pay for their childcare.

Archie Maclean, Fàs Mòr chairperson said, "We are delighted to see the efforts and support of the community and the College come to fruition. Fàs Mòr will provide greater access to employment and educational opportunities for parents of young children in the south end of Skye and will be a welcome addition to a thriving Gaelic community."

If the quality of logo designs is anything to go by, Fàs Mòr will be a great success. In choosing from the multitude of creative designs Val Hodgkinson, graphic designer with local multi-media company, Cànan said, "Cànan was very happy to contribute to this local community venture by helping to pick the winning design and interpreting it into a logo for Fàs Mòr. The standard of work by the pupils from all the schools was very high and made choosing all the more difficult."